According to a report by The Guardian on Thursday, April 23, 2026, The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has expressed confidence that despite increasing public attention and debate surrounding his leadership, he remains assured that divine intervention will help him navigate challenges in office.
Amupitan made the statement in Abuja during an end-of-tenure and appreciation service organised by the Nigerian Baptist Convention in honour of its outgoing president, Rev. Dr. Israel Akanji, and his wife, Victoria Akanji.
Speaking at the event, the INEC chairman reflected on his appointment to head Nigeria’s electoral management body, stressing that it was not driven by personal ambition. According to him, his acceptance of the position was based on a strong sense of spiritual direction and conviction.
He explained that he would not have accepted the responsibility if he did not feel convinced about the assignment. In his words, the decision to take up the role was influenced by what he described as a clear spiritual assurance guiding his path into public service.
Amupitan said he drew strength from what he believes was a divine message he received before assuming office. He quoted the message as saying: “Fear not; do not be dismayed. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will uphold you.” He noted that this conviction played a key role in his decision to lead the electoral commission.
According to him, this belief has continued to sustain him in office, particularly in dealing with the complexities and pressures associated with managing elections in a large and diverse country like Nigeria.
He further stated that faith has remained a source of stability for him in the face of challenges, adding that no situation is beyond the power of God to resolve. He maintained that even in difficult moments, he remains confident that divine support will guide him through.
“No matter the storm, no matter the difficulty, God is able to calm every storm. That is what God has been doing,” he said.
Amupitan’s remarks come at a time when INEC continues to face public scrutiny over electoral processes and institutional reforms, with stakeholders closely watching the commission’s performance under his leadership.
